A dense red, with well-defined aromas and flavors of black cherry and blackberry shaded by graphite, eucalyptus and cumin. Balanced, if still tightly wound, with a lingering fruity, savory and minerally finish. Sangiovese, Canaiolo and Colorino. Best from 2025 through 2038. 26,000 cases made, 17,000 cases imported.??–BS??Region: Italy / Chianti Classico Select to Add

Tasted from barrel, the Castello di Monsanto 2020 Chianti Classico Riserva is 90% Sangiovese with 10% Canaiolo and Colorino that ages in various oak vessels for 18 months. This wine is poised to hit the market in January 2024, and 200,000 bottles will be shipped. It shows medium-dark concentration with typical aromas of wild cherry, peat moss, blue flower and light spice. This estate consistently offers well-made and compelling wines at a value price point.

A sleek, tightly wound red, with black cherry and blackberry fruit shaded by iron, herbs and tobacco. Linear in profile and vibrant, with a long, slightly chewy finish. Needs a year or two. Sangiovese, Canaiolo and Colorino. Best from 2024 through 2037. 26,000 cases made, 17,000 cases imported.??–BS??Region: Italy / Chianti Classico Select to Add

The Riservas from across the appellation are showing very well in 2019. This wine is no exception. The 2019 Chianti Classico Riserva (which is a blend of 90% Sangiovese with Canaiolo and Colorino aged in different-sized oak barrels for up to 18 months) offers pretty richness and concentration. The wine's ample volume is fleshed out with dark fruit, spice and blue flower. It should be fun to try this wine in five years' time, when it loses its baby fat. Happily, production is very generous, with 200,000 bottles made.

A straightforward red, offering cherry, strawberry and light earth flavors on an open-knit profile, with moderate length. Sangiovese, Canaiolo and Colorino. Drink now. 26,000 cases made, 17,000 cases imported.??–BS??Region: Italy / Chianti Classico Select to Add